In a press conference yesterday Big Sam could not praise Mourinho's ability enough! Saying he was one of the top coaches in the world.
But he claimed: "he won't come cheap, and can the FA afford him?
"And you have to remember he doesn't stick around too long. Two or three years then he moves on. He has done that throughout his career.
"But if that is what the FA want, it is up to them."
Sam works on different terms. Mourinho produces success out of a hat, as soon as he walks through the door ... and that has always been the case with the "Special One".
Sam arrived at Newcastle and said on his first day "it will take five years to turn this club around".
Managers these days ... DON'T get five years!
Mourinho has been coy about his prospects thus far, neither ruling himself in or out of the running.
Allardyce Warns FA About Mourinho!
He told Sky Sports News on Wednesday night he 'knew nothing' about the job, having previously been quoted in the The Sun saying the FA would have to 'come and get' him.
"I know nothing, I know nothing about it," he said outside his house in Portugal.
"The only thing I know is I should be on my sofa watching the game and you knock on my door. I have nothing to say."
Asked if he would want the job, Mourinho added: "I cannot answer you. My job at the moment is to take care of my family, things in Portugal, enjoy my life - not 100% because no football - but enjoying my life.
"There are lots of good managers around the world.
"The only thing I say it's a pity England is not in Euro 2008 but for sure they will be back for the World Cup in South Africa, they have to choose the right person for that."
The FA are set to meet on Thursday to discuss the process of appointing the new man, and the Star reports that Brian Barwick will be given more or less sole responsibility for choosing McClaren's successor.
Martin O'Neill is still reported to be high on the FA's list, despite seeming to rule himself out of the running last week.
However, if the FA want Mourinho then they may face competition from Real Madrid and Barcelona, who are both rumoured to be interested.